What: Fireside chat on AI, cybersecurity, and information environment affecting everyday leadership, business, and community life

When: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12th

Where: Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (WIEC), 715 Grandview Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the WIEC for a timely conversation about how changes in AI, cybersecurity, and the information environment are affecting everyday leadership, business, and community life. This fireside chat will translate big national security issues into practical insight for local leaders, founders, and engaged citizens who want to better understand the forces shaping the world around them. FREE and open to all.

Speakers for the event include:

• Eric “Olly” Oehlerich, Former Commanding Officer, Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU)

• Mick Mulroy, Former Chief of Department, Special Activities Center (SAC), Central Intelligence Agency
  Co-Founder, Lobo Institute

• Jeffrey Caruso, Founder, Suits and Spooks Creator, Montana Intelligence Summit (MI:1)

Register Here

What: Free interactive virtual workshop for employers of youth and young adults, hosted by the Montana Work-based Learning Collaborative (WBLC)

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10th

Where: Virtual via Zoom (link to participate will be sent to all registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the WBLC to learn, share, and strengthen your approach to hiring and supporting youth! March’s guest speaker is Gabrielle Eklund Rowley, Work-based Learning Collaborative Director, Reach Higher Montana 

Why Join?

• Boost your seasonal hiring success by creating positive, productive work experiences for young employees

• Discover the value of Work-Based Learning (WBL) and how it benefits your business

• Connect with a growing network of employers committed to internships and WBL opportunities

• Gain practical strategies to support and retain the younger workforce

What to Expect

• Quick 5-minute intro

• 35 minutes of actionable insights

• 20 minutes of Q&A and discussion to turn ideas into next steps

Register Here

Download Flyer

What: Forecasts and insights to stay ahead of the curve in Missoula’s Commercial Real Estate Markets, hosted by Sterling CRE Advisors

When: 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3rd

Where: The Florence Building, 111 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Missoula MarketWatch is your opportunity to get exclusive insights into the latest commercial real estate trends shaping Missoula’s market. Engage with local investors, developers, and stakeholders who are directly involved in Missoula’s ongoing growth and development. SterlingCRE will provide data and market intelligence you need to make confident decisions in 2026.

Following the event will be a networking reception featuring drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and meaningful conversations.

Why Attend?

• Stay Ahead of the Curve – Our market experts analyze data, trends, and local conditions continuously to keep you informed and prepared.

• Navigate Market Changes – Whether rents are rising or falling, we provide insights to safeguard your investments and seize opportunities.

• Trusted Guidance – Join industry leaders who rely on our advice to navigate the complexities of commercial real estate.

Registration is $48, and discounts are available for nonprofit and government professionals. Save $10 with code SREMW26 before Monday, February 9th.

Space is limited, so RSVP today to save your seat.

Register Here

What: Career fair for University of Montana College of Business students

When: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3rd

Where: Gallagher Business Building, University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the University of Montana for this year's College of Business Career Expo!

This event is intended for employers and organizations hiring for full-time and part-time positions and offering internship opportunities for UM College of Business students.

Event registration includes ($200): One Table (4' x 2'), One Parking Pass, and any number of Representatives!

Employers - Register Here

Download flyer

What: Informal networking with students hosted by the University of Montana College of Business and Missoula College

When: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26th

Where: University of Montana Gamer’s Den (UC 2nd floor), 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59812

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Come and have pizza, play games, and chat with students from the Missoula College IT Program, College of Business Cybersecurity Program, and Computer Science students. This is a great opportunity to meet students informally, enjoy pizza, share your professional tech experience, and have fun! The UC Gamer’s Den has billiards, board games, consoles, and PCs for computer games.

To RSVP yourself and/or your team, contact Victor Valgenti at victor.valgenti[at]mso.umt.edu.

What: Free student career panel and networking event featuring Montana and national tech employers, co-hosted by the University of Montana College of Business MISA chapter and the Montana Jobs Network + Montana High Tech Business Alliance 

When: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25th

•  Panel discussion: 5:30 – 6:15 p.m.

•  Networking & desserts: 6:15 – 7:00 p.m.

Where: UM Campus, 32 Campus Drive, Gallagher Business Building Room 106, Missoula, MT 59802

What can you do to gain an edge in the job market?

Join the University of Montana College of Business and the Montana Jobs Network for a student-focused panel discussion featuring professionals from Montana-based companies and national tech firms with local roots. Panelists will share how they built their careers, what roles are in demand now, and how students can prepare for internships and entry-level opportunities in today’s job market.

Panelists Include:

• Kym Corwin, Head of Workforce Development, Cognizant

• Kina Kuhn, Director of Community Engagement & Media Relations, Blackfoot Communications

• Jann Butler, Executive Coach & Advisor, Former VP People for onX

• Keriann Strickland, Chief Marketing Officer, Submittable

Register Here

Download Flyer

What: Panel of speakers from Northwest Montana who have overcome challenges to build businesses and careers 

When: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24th

Where: Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (WIEC), 715 Grandview Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the WIEC for a panel of speakers from Northwest Montana who overcame the region’s challenges to build extraordinary businesses and careers, moderated by a Montana builder with a story to tell. FREE and open to all.

Speakers for the event are Marianne Smith, founder and CEO of Code Girls United, and Eric Fulton, venture partner at Two Bear Capital. Kathleen Warner, principal at PlotTwist Advisory and MHTBA board member, will be the host moderator for the evening. 

Register Here

What: Workshop on funding strategy, hosted by Montana West Economic Development (MWED)

When: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 23rd

Where: MWED, 44 2nd Ave. W, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Course Overview:

The right funding strategy determines how fast and how well a startup can grow. This session equips entrepreneurs to evaluate funding options, avoid common pitfalls, and build credibility with financial partners.

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Compare different funding sources (bootstrapping, loans, equity, grants).

2. Understand the tradeoffs between control, cost of capital, and growth speed.

3. Build a capital access plan aligned with your long-term strategy.

Who Should Attend:
Entrepreneurs preparing to raise funds, startup founders navigating capital decisions, and business owners seeking clarity on sustainable financing.

Practical Takeaways:

1. Funding strategy worksheet.

2. Example investor pitch framework.

3. Capital access opportunities (banks, angels, VCs, grants).

Cost: 

• MWED Members: $100

• Non-Members: $150

This session is part of Montana West Economic Development’s Business Lifecycle Masterclass Series. With expert insights tailored to Montana’s unique business landscape, you’ll gain practical tools to thrive in today’s economy. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside other driven entrepreneurs and business leaders in Northwest Montana.

Register Here

What: Conversation on AI and networking, hosted by CubCloud AI, AIfluency, and the Alliance

When: 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19th

Where: Highlander Beer, 200 International Dr, Missoula, MT 59808

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join CubCloud AI, Alfluency, and the Montana High Tech Business Alliance for pizza and engaging conversation on the future of AI. Enjoy a casual evening of networking with the Missoula tech community while hearing from CubCloud AI Founder, Joshua Rhines, and ZestStream.AI.

Register Here

Download flyer

What: Monthly member meeting featuring Lisa Simon, owner of Radius Gallery

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 19th

Where: Radius Gallery, 120 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

Located in the heart of downtown Missoula, Radius Gallery showcases the skills and sensibilities of extraordinary artists, connects those artists to discerning collectors, and offers an energetic forum for discussing art and its vitality in the world today. 

Learn More

What: Free webinar walking through the process from start to finish on buying commercial property, hosted by Sterling CRE Advisors, Missoula Economic Partnership, and Dakota Business Lending

When: 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18th

Where: Virtual (event details will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Thinking about buying a building for your business? In this free webinar, you’ll learn how to evaluate the long-term costs of owning versus leasing, understand when market timing matters, and explore different ownership paths, including purchasing your current space or finding a new property. You’ll also explore owner-occupied financing options, how to prepare your business for financing, how to approach a landlord about a potential sale, and how to assemble the right team to move from planning to ownership. 

You’ll gain clarity on: 

• When ownership supports stability, growth, or succession 

• How to assess whether your business is ready to own

• Assembling the right team for the ownership process

• What real estate strategy best aligns with your operations 

• How owner-occupied financing works 

• What to expect from the process, from strategy through closing 

Register Here

Guest Speakers: 

• Christine Littig, Business Development Director, Missoula Economic Partnership

• Connor McMahon, Commercial Real Estate Advisor, SterlingCRE Advisors

• Molly Bradford, Business Development & Commercial Loan Officer, Dakota Business Lending 

What: FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition

When: 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6th

Where: Montana State University - Shroyer Gym, 1 Bobcat Circle, Bozeman, MT, 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is designed for students in grades 7-12 to compete head-to-head, using a sports model. Teams are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams.

Become a FIRST robotics competition volunteer and celebrate the accomplishments of students in science and technology across Montana. The FIRST Tech Challenge is seeking volunteers for its upcoming one-day tournament in Bozeman. Some volunteer positions can be split into morning shifts and afternoon shifts. All training for the roles will be provided through online videos or on-site by the Lead Volunteers. No prior robotics experience is necessary. 

Volunteer Here

For more details, please contact Julie Heller at julieh[at]mtroboticsalliance.org. Visit the Montana Robotics Alliance website to learn more about youth robotics in Montana and future volunteer opportunities.

What: Evening of hands-on STEM educational activities, hosted by MSU Academic Technology and Outreach

When: 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 5th

Where: Strand Union Building (SUB) Ballrooms, Montana State University, 751 W Grant St, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join Montana State University for a fun evening of hands-on educational activities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Hang out with MSU students, meet MSU scientists and engineers, and circulate at your own pace through a variety of engaging demonstrations and experiments in a science festival atmosphere. 

The evening will help kids and adults learn more about science in a fun and easy-to-understand format. Many scientific topics and disciplines will be represented, including science related to space, Yellowstone, and the polar regions. An adult must accompany children.

MSU Science Night is free and open to the public. Advance registration is not required.

Volunteer Opportunity:

Volunteers are critical to MSU Science Night and MSU Science Day. Volunteers run stations by:

• Using a pre-designed STEM activity from one of our National Science Foundation kits

• Designing your own activity or exhibit

Learn More

What: Professional development program covering elements of Lean, Theory of Constraints (TOC), and Six Sigma, and how to apply them to initiate transformational change to your business operations, hosted by the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC)

When: 12:00 - 4:00 p.m. starting on Wednesday, January 28th (6-week program)

Where: Missoula College, Room 235, 1205 E Broadway St, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

MMEC’s Operational Excellence program is a valuable opportunity to elevate the professional skills of your team and prepare for company-wide excellence. The program has been recently updated to reflect the latest core material, body of knowledge, and test requirements for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Bronze Certificate.

WHO should participate?

Manufacturing Leads, Supervisors, Managers, Leaders, and other High Potential Individuals who are motivated to transform their careers and their companies.

WHAT will you learn?

Participants will learn the essential elements of Lean, Theory of Constraints (TOC), and Six Sigma, and how to apply them to initiate transformational change.  The program combines interactive activities, real-world problem-solving, and classroom instruction, offering participants solid preparation for certification testing as well as proven strategies that can be immediately applied at work.

HOW will you benefit?

PARTICIPANTS will:

• Gain hands-on experience, professional mentoring, enhanced resumes and expanded portfolios

• Earn nationally recognized certificates and credentials:

• SME LB Certificate (with passing score on exam)

• SME LB Certification (with portfolio completion)

• Earn full membership in the Southwest Montana Manufacturing Partnership’s Operational Excellence Collective

MANUFACTURING FIRMS will:

• Accelerate their progress toward implementation of Operational Excellence, regardless of starting point

• Engage more employees in improving company performance

• Bolster reputation as an employer of choice for top talent

• Benefit from ROI from projects implemented by employees trained in OpEx tools (typical results = $10k+ per project)

WHY is this program different?

• High-intensity format minimizes time away from work

• Small student-to-instructor ratio promotes high-quality learning

• Optional Phase 2 program offers ongoing mentorship to facilitate the successful implementation of OpEx principles

Register Here

Instructor:

What: Workshop on financial forecasting, hosted by Montana West Economic Development (MWED)

When: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 26th

Where: MWED, 44 2nd Ave. W, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Course Overview:

Accurate forecasting gives startups the clarity to price well, manage cash flow, and prepare for growth. This session helps entrepreneurs calculate total costs, breakeven points, and pricing strategies that sustain profitability.

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Build a simple yet robust financial forecast.

2. Calculate breakeven and pricing thresholds.

3. Identify cost drivers and financial risks.

Who Should Attend:
Startup founders and small business owners who want confidence in their numbers when making decisions or approaching banks and investors.

Practical Takeaways:

1. Forecasting template (Excel/Sheets).

2. Pricing strategy worksheet.

3. Breakeven analysis calculator.

Cost: 

• MWED Members: $100

• Non-Members: $150

This session is part of Montana West Economic Development’s Business Lifecycle Masterclass Series. With expert insights tailored to Montana’s unique business landscape, you’ll gain practical tools to thrive in today’s economy. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside other driven entrepreneurs and business leaders in Northwest Montana.

Register Here

What: Reception showcasing Montana’s growing photonics community, hosted by SoFi

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. (PST) on Wednesday, January 21st

Where: SoFi, 234 1st Street, San Francisco, California 94105

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance and the Department of Commerce would like to cordially invite you to the Montana Reception, hosted by SoFi, a nationally recognized financial services company headquartered in California and known for its innovation and member-focused approach. Equally important is SoFi’s local presence through its Helena branch, which brings national expertise to Montana while actively supporting the local business community. 

Complimentary drinks and appetizers will be served. Space is limited; RSVP by Sunday, January 18th.

Register Here

Download Flyer

What: Professional development program covering elements of Lean, Theory of Constraints (TOC), and Six Sigma, and how to apply them to initiate transformational change to your business operations, hosted by the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC)

When: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. starting on Wednesday, January 21st (6-week program)

Where: MMEC Conference Room, 2310 University Way, Bldg. 2, Suite 1, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

MMEC’s Operational Excellence program is a valuable opportunity to elevate the professional skills of your team and prepare for company-wide excellence. The program has been recently updated to reflect the latest core material, body of knowledge, and test requirements for the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) Bronze Certificate.

WHO should participate?

Manufacturing Leads, Supervisors, Managers, Leaders, and other High Potential Individuals who are motivated to transform their careers and their companies.

WHAT will you learn?

Participants will learn the essential elements of Lean, Theory of Constraints (TOC), and Six Sigma, and how to apply them to initiate transformational change.  The program combines interactive activities, real-world problem-solving, and classroom instruction, offering participants solid preparation for certification testing as well as proven strategies that can be immediately applied at work.

HOW will you benefit?

PARTICIPANTS will:

• Gain hands-on experience, professional mentoring, enhanced resumes and expanded portfolios

• Earn nationally recognized certificates and credentials:

• SME LB Certificate (with passing score on exam)

• SME LB Certification (with portfolio completion)

• Earn full membership in the Southwest Montana Manufacturing Partnership’s Operational Excellence Collective

MANUFACTURING FIRMS will:

• Accelerate their progress toward implementation of Operational Excellence, regardless of starting point

• Engage more employees in improving company performance

• Bolster reputation as an employer of choice for top talent

• Benefit from ROI from projects implemented by employees trained in OpEx tools (typical results = $10k+ per project)

WHY is this program different?

• High-intensity format minimizes time away from work

• Small student-to-instructor ratio promotes high-quality learning

• Optional Phase 2 program offers ongoing mentorship to facilitate the successful implementation of OpEx principles

Register Here

Instructor:

What: In-person networking for the MHTBA Flathead Local Chapter and guests, sponsored by Two Bear Capital

When: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20th

Where: Wachholz Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center (WIEC), Room 128, 715 Grandview Dr, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join us for in-person networking and great conversation as we kick off 2026 with the MHTBA Flathead Local Chapter at the Wachholz Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center (WIEC) in Kalispell.

These informal events bring together startup founders, tech professionals, executives, investors, and community partners from across Montana’s innovation ecosystem. Registration links will be sent via email.

The number of guests per organization is based on current MHTBA membership level. Prospective members may attend one event for free.

For more information about membership, contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org or visit our membership benefits page to learn more.

What: FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition

When: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 17th

Where: Carroll College, 1601 N. Benton Avenue, Helena, MT 59625

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is designed for students in grades 7-12 to compete head-to-head, using a sports model. Teams are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams.

Become a FIRST robotics competition volunteer and celebrate the accomplishments of students in science and technology across Montana. The FIRST Tech Challenge is seeking volunteers for its upcoming one-day tournament in Helena. Some volunteer positions can be split into morning shifts and afternoon shifts. All training for the roles will be provided through online videos or on-site by the Lead Volunteers. No prior robotics experience is necessary. 

Volunteer Here

For more details, please contact Julie Heller at julieh[at]mtroboticsalliance.org. Visit the Montana Robotics Alliance website to learn more about youth robotics in Montana and future volunteer opportunities.

What: Discussion on area housing, affordability & the lending landscape hosted by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and City of Bozeman

When: 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 15th

Where: The Baxter, 105 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join ULI Idaho/Montana and the City of Bozeman for this year's 2026 Emerging Trends in Real Estate event, a discussion on area housing, affordability & the lending landscape, and a rundown of the data provided in the 2025 Bozeman Market Research Report completed by Economic and Planning Systems.

Why Attend?

• National & Local Perspectives: Gain insights from national experts and local leaders on how emerging trends will impact the Montana real estate market.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, investors, and developers who are shaping the future of Montana's urban landscape.

• Actionable Insights: Learn about the latest strategies and innovations to stay competitive in the ever-changing real estate market.

About the Housing discussion:

We'll convene some speakers to address the state of Housing in Montana, and touch on whats happening specifically in the area, as well as discuss the current lending landscape. 

Highlights

• Deep Dive into Lending Mechanics

• Local Housing Market Analysis

• Strategic Opportunities & Solutions

• Collaborative Engagement

About the Bozeman Market Report:  

Join the Bozeman Economic Development Department as we dig into the annual Market Report. Economic and Planning Systems, along with the Urban Land Institute, will present data, trends for the future, and answer questions from the community. 

Coffee and light pastries will be provided.

Register Here

Download the Bozeman Market Report

What: Holiday party hosted by the Hellgate Venture Network

When: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 18th

Where: Goodworks Place, 129 West Alder Street, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

You’re Invited to the annual HVN Holiday Party! Enjoy beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages on us.

In the spirit of sharing, feel free to bring a treat or dish to share—we’ll have a variety of crackers, cookies, and light snacks ready for you.

This month, there’s no guest speaker—just great people, warm conversation, and plenty of holiday cheer. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

Learn More

What: Virtual seminar discussing what AI is, what it does, and how it can be used in the workplace, hosted by Associated Employers. 

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Everyone is aware of, might be using, or thinking of using AI in our workplaces. But what is AI? How does it work? Is it reliable? This webinar will highlight what AI is, what it does, and how it can be used. You will explore how AI learns and the role of AI in our human services workplaces.

How You Will Benefit

• Learn what AI truly is

• Explore how AI works and learns

• Learn about prompting

• Learn how AI can help in the workplace

• Discuss the pitfalls of AI including energy consumption, incorrect information, bias and ethical issues

Cost per webinar:

• AE Members - $125

• Prospective Members - $155

Price is for one (1) login. Additional logins are available for $10 each. Registration includes 30-day access to the recorded webinar. Not available for the live webinar? If these times do not fit your schedule, recorded webinars are available for purchase on our website two days after the live one.

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download the Winter 2025-2026 training & webinar catalog

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees, and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Live chat with cybersecurity experts Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin on dramatically improving identity and authentication across your organization, hosted by LMG Security

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17th

Where: Virtual (event details will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

AI has supercharged phishing, deepfakes, and impersonation attacks — and 2025 proved that our trust systems aren’t built for this new reality.

In this episode, Sherri and Matt break down the #1 change every security program needs in 2026: dramatically improving identity and authentication across the organization. They will explore how AI blurred the lines between legitimate and malicious communication, why authentication can no longer stop at the login screen, and where organizations must start adding verification into everyday workflows — from IT support calls to executive requests and financial approvals.

Plus, they’ll discuss what “next-generation” user training looks like when employees can no longer rely on old phishing cues and must instead adopt identity-safety habits that AI can’t easily spoof. If you want to strengthen your security program for the year ahead, this is the episode to watch.

Register Here

Speakers:

What: Workshop on operational foundations, hosted by Montana West Economic Development (MWED)

When: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 15th

Where: MWED, 44 2nd Ave. W, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Course Overview:

Scaling without validation risks wasted time, money, and opportunity. This session shows entrepreneurs how to test demand, refine offerings, and ensure fit before investing in growth.

Course Overview:

Lean principles help startups operate with discipline, minimize waste, and build scalable systems early. This session introduces core Lean concepts and shows entrepreneurs how to apply them in their ventures.

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the fundamentals of Lean thinking.

2. Map processes and identify sources of waste.

3. Apply continuous improvement to startup operations.

Who Should Attend:

Startup founders, early-stage managers, and teams building operational discipline.

Practical Takeaways:

1. Lean startup operations checklist.

2. Process mapping template.

3. Continuous improvement toolkit.

Cost: 

• MWED Members: $100

• Non-Members: $150

This session is part of Montana West Economic Development’s Business Lifecycle Masterclass Series. With expert insights tailored to Montana’s unique business landscape, you’ll gain practical tools to thrive in today’s economy. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside other driven entrepreneurs and business leaders in Northwest Montana.

Register Here

What: Montana Governor’s Christmas Gala to benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Montana

When: 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12th

Where: Snowline Acres, 3315 U.S. 93 South, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and First Lady Susan Gianforte invite you to attend or sponsor their upcoming Christmas Gala. Enjoy a seated dinner and an evening of dancing featuring Wylie & the Wild West. Formal attire is encouraged.

All proceeds go toward Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Montana.

Contribution to Attend:

• $500 Per Person

• $1,000 Per Couple

RSVP to Susan Gianforte at Susan.Gianforte[at]gmail.com. 

Learn More

What: Evening of networking, technology demos, and conversation hosted by the Montana High Tech Business Alliance, Montana BioScience Alliance, and Titin KM Biomedical

When: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10th

Where: Titin KM Biomedical, 703 Bridger Dr, Unit B-3, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the Montana BioScience Alliance and Montana High Tech Business Alliance for an evening of networking, technology demos, and conversation at Titin KM Biomedical in Bozeman. Light refreshments will be provided.

In 2024, the Alliance named Titin KM Biomedical a 2024 Montana Biotech Company to Watch due to its groundbreaking Humero Tech C1 machine diagnosing debilitating shoulder injuries and helping with patient rehabilitation. 

Program Highlights:

• Networking with leaders in Montana’s bioscience and high tech communities

• Short presentation and technology demo from Dr. Kole Mickolio, CEO of Titin KM

• Guided tours of Titin KM’s manufacturing facilities (as space allows)

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

What: Montana Governor’s Christmas Gala to benefit Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Montana

When: 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6th

Where: The Commons, 1794 East Baxter Lane, Bozeman, MT 59718

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte and First Lady Susan Gianforte invite you to attend or sponsor their upcoming Christmas Gala. Enjoy a seated dinner and an evening of dancing featuring Wylie & the Wild West. Formal attire is encouraged.

All proceeds go toward Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Montana.

Contribution to Attend:

• $500 Per Person

• $1,000 Per Couple

RSVP to Susan Gianforte at Susan.Gianforte[at]gmail.com. 

Learn More

What: Session exploring how companies of all types can benefit from R&D Tax Credit incentives hosted by Big Sky Economic Development and ADP

When: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2nd

Where: Zoot Training Room, Big Sky Economic Development, 201 N. Broadway, Billings, MT 59101& virtual via Zoom

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Many businesses overlook Research & Development tax credits, assuming they apply only to high-tech or biotech industries. Companies across a wide range of industries may qualify for this $20 billion dollar tax credit yet only 1/3 of eligible companies are taking advantage. Join Big Sky Economic Development and ADP for a member-exclusive session exploring how companies of all types can benefit from R&D Tax Credit incentives. Learn about what the R&D Tax Credit is, why it’s important to your business and how you can take advantage of it today!

Register Here

Guest Speakers:

Ryan Lynch is a District Manager for ADP covering Montana out of Butte He is passionate about helping organizations with everything from basic payroll to comprehensive human capital management and analytics. Ryan lives in Butte and can be found fishing one of Montana’s rivers or lakes and enjoying the lifestyle that makes Montana so attractive.

Mike Auble is a Sales Executive at ADP with a demonstrated track record of leading and developing high-performing teams focused on driving strategic growth and delivering innovative human capital management solutions to clients across various industries. His latest teams are focused on the Research and Development Tax Credit (among others) which significantly impacts businesses by providing financial incentives for innovation. Mike is from Boston and excited to be in Billings to meet with the Big Sky Economic Development membership.

What: FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition

When: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22nd

Where: Montana Tech HPER Center, HPER West Park Street, Butte, MT 59701

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is designed for students in grades 7-12 to compete head-to-head, using a sports model. Teams are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams.

Become a FIRST robotics competition volunteer and celebrate the accomplishments of students in science and technology across Montana. The FIRST Tech Challenge is seeking volunteers for its upcoming one-day tournament in Butte. Some volunteer positions can be split into morning shifts and afternoon shifts. All training for the roles will be provided through online videos or on-site by the Lead Volunteers. No prior robotics experience is necessary. 

Volunteer Here

For more details, please contact Julie Heller at julieh[at]mtroboticsalliance.org. Visit the Montana Robotics Alliance website to learn more about youth robotics in Montana and future volunteer opportunities.